Designing a Home Classroom that Actually Works
Online learning is tough. From digital access equity to reduced accountability, the challenges surrounding distance learning amid the Covid-19 pandemic are troubling educators and students alike.
It’s harder than ever to feel motivated and productive—you can’t muster a feeling out of thin air. You can’t just say, “I feel motivated,” and suddenly want nothing more than to do homework for the rest of your life. But, over time, you can build motivation and rewire your neural pathways.
Developing motivation requires feeling in control of your psychological processes and external tools. Having a physical environment where you feel comfortable and facilitates your concentration is the first step in keeping yourself and your work organized. So, how can you create a home classroom that actually works?
Find a study corner. You don’t need to be alone in a giant, silent library in order to get work done. Where you’re naturally more productive is not necessarily the same as others. Set up your own space with a writing surface and any combination of the following: coffee/tea/hot chocolate, a basket of special study snacks, ambient music, natural light, an essential oil diffuser or candle, and no distractions. If you study well with a friend, this could also be a place you study together!
Design your space. If your space looks aesthetically pleasing, you’ll feel more productive! Put up some simple artwork with bold colors. Use .38 Muji gel pens in various colors (or .5, if that’s more your style). Sit on yoga balls or cow-print bean bags when you’re feeling restless.
Keep your back supported. When sitting, your desk should be at (or slightly below) resting elbow height with your feet planted firmly on the floor. If your desk is too high, add a seat cushion to prop yourself up. Consider using a lumbar support pillow to maintain proper posture and ensure that the thighs remain almost parallel to the ground.
Keep all your supplies in the same place. Books, binders, notebooks, pencils, and sharpeners should stay in your desk or your backpack, so you know where they are at all times.
Utilize physical reminders. With virtual classes, digital textbooks, and online assignments, the idea of using a pencil and paper might seem outdated. However, studies show that note-taking by hand enables greater learning and retention. Consider printing out articles whenever possible, putting a whiteboard with your class schedule on it, and using a physical planner to track assignments.
Take frequent breaks. Working for hours on end in front of screens can burn you out. Do jumping jacks in between classes, read a comic book during lunch, and take a short walk after class to see the crunchy fall leaves. Avoid breaks that don’t have a finite end point (e.g., taking a nap, any social media with limitless scroll).
Remember that changing the way we work is difficult, and there is no magic fix. No system will result immediately in perfect grades and zero missed assignments. You will not have a perfectly organized backpack all the time. You’ll never be fully in control – after all, no one is.
But you can aim to develop tools that bring more control to your academic life than you’ve had before. Reach out if you (or your student) are having trouble with the transition to online learning. Our study skills coaches are eager to get you back on track!